Padikkal Scores 199 as India A Draws with New Zealand A

India A held a draw against New Zealand A after Padikkal’s 199, with the match ending at 187/9 due to bad light.

The first day was a nightmare for the Indians. Bowled out for 113, Yash Rathod top‑scored with 44 and Devdutt Padikkal managed only 32. New Zealand A answered with a 317‑run reply, taking a 204‑run lead. Rhys Mariu’s 76 and Dean Foxcroft’s 51 powered the hosts, while Simon Keene’s five wickets rattled the Indian bowlers.

India’s second innings was a masterclass. Padikkal smashed 199 off 248 balls, pairing up with Sai Sudharsan for a 215‑run stand that lifted the score to 516. Yash Rathod added 66 and Washington Sundar chipped in with 52. The partnership turned the tide, giving India a 313‑run target for the visitors.

The chase got off to a shaky start when Auqib Nabi’s early wickets rattled the New Zealand lineup. Washington Sundar’s quick wicket of Kristian Clarke steadied things, but the hosts collapsed again after Foxcroft’s 42. With only one wicket left, Padikkal’s maiden first‑class wicket and Akash Deep’s crucial bowling left the score at 187/9 when the lights failed.

The draw leaves both squads bruised but unbeaten. Padikkal’s effort was a bright spot for India, while New Zealand A’s resilient 187/9 showed they can grind out results in tough conditions.

The next chapter begins on Saturday with the second unofficial Test, where both sides will aim to use the momentum from this encounter to push for a win.